After watching “The Performing Arts Athlete: Anticipatory Guidance & Evaluation” by CHOC pediatrician and sports medicine expert Chris Koutures, MD, pediatric health care providers will feel more confident in addressing specific medical and musculoskeletal concerns of young performing artists. Pediatricians can use their knowledge of adolescent emotional and physical development to make concrete recommendations about appropriate nutrition, reducing the risk of overload, diminishing hearing loss, and preserving voice quality and pitch.

In the video, Dr. Koutures demonstrates a case-based approach to the presentation, evaluation, and management of common performing arts musculoskeletal complaints, including neck and shoulder pain, lower back pain, hip/knee concerns, and foot/ankle issues. A practical description of relevant anatomy combined with descriptions of how performers frequently “cheat” and use poor mechanics will quickly make the viewer far more adept in providing activity-specific recommendations to young performers and their families.